Severe Storms Cause Damage Across Wisconsin

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Tornado aftermath Tomah
Tornado aftermath near HWY 21 NE of Tomah/ Photo by Branden Bodendorfer

WISCONSIN (OnFocus) – A strong line of thunderstorms moved across Wisconsin Wednesday afternoon and evening, producing heavy rains, multiple reported tornadoes, and strong winds.

The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) has elevated to Level 3 in response to severe thunderstorms and tornadoes reported. Staff from Wisconsin Emergency Management and other state agencies are reporting to the SEOC in Madison to monitor severe weather conditions in the state and fulfill any resource requests.

The storms caused damage from Monroe to Marinette counties. Nearly two dozen county and tribal emergency management offices have reported tree, building and other property to the state, along with numerous downed utility lines. A state of emergency has been declared by Monroe County and the Stockbridge-Munsee Nation. No statewide emergency declaration has been requested. Monroe County reported two injuries related to overturned semis, but no major injuries or fatalities have been reported to the state.

The National Weather Service (NWS) is conducting damage surveys in locations across the state today as it works to confirm tornado activity. Confirmation information will be shared by the state’s National Weather Service offices.

About 89,000 electric utility customers remain disconnected. Providers are working to restore service. Customers with questions about timelines for restoration of service should contact their utility provider.

As clean-up continues, residents are encouraged to document any damage to their property and check local government websites to see how officials would like you to report that information. Keep safety in mind as you work to remove debris – wear appropriate clothing, use equipment such as chainsaws properly, and never approach downed power lines. Any debris disposal information will be shared by local government agencies.

FoodShare members who lost food due to a power outage lasting at least four hours or other damage during recent storms may request replacement FoodShare benefits to restock food items that were lost. To request replacement benefits, members must submit this form and proof of a power outage or other cause of the lost food. Forms must be submitted within 10 days of the date the food was lost. The completed form and proof can be submitted online at https://access.wi.gov, in person at a member’s local agency, via mail, or fax.

State assistance has been requested with aerial damage surveys in western Wisconsin. No additional state resources have been requested at this time.

The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) has transitioned back to Level 5, or normal operations status, with any requests for state resources being directed to the Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) duty officer. WEM and its partners continue to monitor recovery operations and assist with damage assessments in affected regions.

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News Desk
Author: News Desk

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